U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito visited Nicholas County on Wednesday for a series of stops focused on strengthening adult education and supporting PK-12 students across the region.

Capito, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, began her day in Summersville, where she toured Nicholas County Adult Education and met with instructors and program leaders. The center offers CTE training, GED preparation, CNA certification, and other workforce-focused programs designed to help adult learners gain skills and advance their careers.

During the visit, Capito was presented with the National Association for the Transformation of Adult Education’s Legacy Leader of Adult Education Award, recognizing her work to expand opportunities for adult learners and strengthen adult-education programs nationwide.

“It’s great to be in Summersville today with Nicholas County Adult Education leadership and faculty to learn more about their work to expand opportunities for adults continuing their education,” Capito said. “Programs like these are foundational in our pursuit of the American Dream, ensuring a better and brighter future for our state’s economic growth and job opportunities.”

Heather Tharp, a Career Development Consultant with West Virginia Adult Education, said Capito’s support has helped adult learners gain confidence and independence. “Her commitment to expanding educational opportunities helps adult learners build the skills and confidence they need to become self-sufficient, pursue meaningful careers, and strengthen their communities,” Tharp said.

Capito then traveled to Richwood, where she toured Richwood Elementary, Middle, and High Schools and met with local education leaders to discuss the schools’ progress since reopening last year. The facilities were rebuilt following the devastating 2016 floods, with Capito playing a key role in securing FEMA funding through her work on the Senate Appropriations Committee.

“It was great to be back in Richwood to receive updates on the schools’ progress since reopening last year,” Capito said. “The education of our children is a top priority, and it was great to see the schools back in full swing for the fall semester.”

Nicholas County Schools Superintendent Scott Cochran said Capito’s advocacy helped ensure the community could rebuild locally. “Her work to secure and release FEMA funds played an important role in getting these schools up and running for our students, teachers, and the entire community,” Cochran said.

Capito’s visits highlighted ongoing efforts to expand educational access, strengthen workforce training, and support long-term recovery and development in Nicholas County.